Top 15 Best Pakistani Restaurants in Riyadh 2024

Being an expat, missing the familiar flavours of home is inevitable.

While Saudi Arabia boasts delectable traditional cuisine, Pakistani food holds a special place in the hearts of many Pakistani expats.

Finding truly authentic Pakistani restaurants in Riyadh can be a challenge, but fret not!

Today, I’m gonna compile the best Pakistani restaurants in Riyadh, satisfying your cravings and transporting you back to your culinary roots.

I have tried all the restaurants myself to bring you the best ones practically.

Fact Check: There are over 33,399 restaurants in Riyadh as of 2024.

Kaptaan Restaurant

If you’re looking for a reliable, day-to-day Pakistani restaurant in Riyadh that won’t break the bank, Kaptaan Restaurant is your answer.

I’ve scoured the Pakistani culinary scene in Saudi Arabia, and Kaptaan consistently stands out for its unwavering commitment to authentic flavors and exceptional value.

Why Kaptaan Reigns Supreme?

• Flavorful Consistency: Unlike many restaurants that falter in maintaining their quality, Kaptaan’s dishes always deliver the same burst of Pakistani goodness. You can count on each bite to transport you back to the tastebuds of your homeland.
• Innovation with Respect: While Kaptaan champions traditional Pakistani flavours, they also keep things exciting by introducing new dishes regularly. This innovative spirit ensures you’ll always have something fresh and tempting to try.

Must-Try Delights

• Chicken/Mutton Karahi: Kaptaan’s Karahi is a masterpiece. The meat is cooked to tender perfection, infused with a symphony of spices that will have you singing praises.
• Fish (Fried or Grilled): Kaptaan’s recent foray into seafood has been a resounding success. Their fish, whether fried or grilled, are incredibly flavourful and cooked to perfection. I guarantee you’ve never had Pakistani-style fish this good in Riyadh!
• Tikka Boti: Kaptaan’s juicy, melt-in-your-mouth Tikka Boti is simply divine. The marinated meat is grilled to smoky perfection, leaving you wanting more with every bite.
• Falooda: No Pakistani meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Kaptaan’s Falooda is the undisputed champion in Riyadh. This refreshing dessert is a delightful blend of rosewater, vermicelli noodles, ice cream, and nuts – the perfect way to cap off your culinary adventure.
• Pakistani Breakfast: Craving a taste of home in the morning? Kaptaan’s Halwa Puri and Payee will hit the spot. These traditional breakfast dishes are bursting with flavor and sure to leave you feeling satisfied and energized for the day ahead.

Beyond the Food

Kaptaan’s accolades extend beyond their delicious cuisine.

They’ve been recognized by Pakistani media for their outstanding food and service, and their owner has even been featured in interviews.

This recognition speaks volumes about their commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience.

Kaptaan Restaurant is more than just a place to eat – it’s a haven for Pakistani flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Riyadh.

Kaptaan Restaurant Location

So next time you’re craving a taste of home, skip the rest and head straight to Kaptaan!

Food House Restaurant & Lounge

Get ready to ditch the restaurant hopping, because Riyadh’s culinary scene just got a one-stop wonder: Food House Restaurant & Lounge.

Five Glorious Cuisines under One Roof

Imagine this: Pakistani / Indian curries melting on your tongue, sizzling Arabic grilled meats, Italian pastas twirling in creamy bliss, Chinese stir-fries bursting with flavour, and Lebanese dips swirling with exotic spices.

All at the same restaurant!

Food House isn’t just diverse, it’s a symphony of global flavours orchestrated to perfection.

But wait, there’s more!

This culinary feast wouldn’t be complete without the aromatic cherry on top: Sheesha.

Gather your friends and family, settle into their spacious, inviting ambiance, and get ready for a sensory overload.

A Feast for the Senses

I, dove headfirst into their culinary delights, and here are just a few highlights:

• Whole Salmon with Cheese: Prepare to be wowed by this unique masterpiece. Every bite is a dance of creamy cheese and succulent fish, guaranteed to leave you wanting more.
• Food House Special BBQ Platter: BBQ lovers, rejoice! This platter is a carnivore’s dream, featuring a delectable array of grilled meats cooked to smoky perfection.
• Mocktails that Sing: Don’t let the “mock” fool you. These refreshing mocktails are bursting with flavor and creativity. The perfect pairing for your culinary adventure.
• Biryani, Karahi, and Bliss: We dived into some classic favourites, and let me tell you, their biryani is fluffy and fragrant, their karahi tender and flavourful, and their mutton karahi is a slow-cooked symphony of spices.
• Brownie Bliss: End your meal on a high note with their decadent brownie, a rich, chocolatey reward for your taste buds.

Food House Restaurant & Lounge Location

BBQ Tonight

A Pakistani legend, BBQ Tonight needs no introduction.

Their Riyadh branch upholds the tradition of delicious, authentic Pakistani food.

With daily buffets and additional Friday specialties, they cater to every craving.

Their flavour, setting, and cost-effectiveness make them a top choice.

I tried their Buffet in Ramadan and trust me, it’s the best iftar you’ll ever have in Saudi Arabia.

BBQ Tonight Riyadh Location

Biryani 65

Biryani 65 has quickly become a star name.

This newcomer burst onto the scene just months ago, and it’s already captivating taste buds with its delicious Pakistani delights and unique ambiance.

But Biryani 65 isn’t just about incredible food (though we’ll get to that in a moment!).

They’ve shattered the breakfast mold by extending their scrumptious halwa puri offerings until 4 PM!

This makes them a haven for night owls like you and me.

Speaking of those flavours, prepare to be wowed!

Their biryani is a masterpiece, each grain infused with fragrant spices and perfectly cooked tenderness.

Karahi?

Simply legendary, bursting with depth and smokiness that will leave you wanting more.

Trust me, these dishes are worth breaking any culinary schedule for.

Biryani 65 doesn’t just serve up Pakistani passion; it creates an experience.

Their ambiance is a delightful blend of modern style and warm Pakistani hospitality.

You’ll feel instantly welcome and ready to embark on a flavour journey like no other.

So, next time your stomach rumbles (whether at dawn or dusk), make Biryani 65 your destination.

Come for the delicious biryani and karahi, stay for the welcoming atmosphere and unforgettable experience.

You won’t regret it!

Biryani 65 Location

Traditional Taste Restaurant – TTR

Forget introductions—the internet’s (especially Riyadh Eateries group) already buzzing with Traditional Taste Restaurant, Riyadh’s hottest new eatery!

Foodies everywhere are flocking to this newcomer, and with good reason.

With a vast menu boasting Pakistani and now, even Chinese dishes with a desi twist, Traditional Taste is the culinary adventure you’ve been craving.

But amidst the menu’s bounty, two stars reign supreme: their heavenly Dum Pukht and the unforgettable Butt Karahi.

The Dum Pukht, a slow-cooked masterpiece, will melt in your mouth while the Karahi’s smoky, flavourful intensity will set your taste buds on fire.

Trust me, these dishes are worth the hype.

And if you’re looking for something unique, their desi-style Chinese is a game-changer!

This fusion of Pakistani spices and classic Chinese flavours is an explosion of taste you won’t find anywhere else in Riyadh.

Plus, they recently started pouring Matka Chai, the perfect warm hug for your soul.

Sit back, sip your chai, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere that buzzes with excitement and the aroma of deliciousness.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, Traditional Taste Restaurant has something for you.

It’s the complete package: incredible food, unique offerings, and a lively atmosphere.

So, skip the endless scrolling and head down.

Your taste buds (and tummy) will thank you!

Traditional Taste Restaurant Location

Grill N Rice

Craving authentic Pakistani and Indian cuisine in Riyadh?

Look no further than Grill N Rice.

They weave magic with a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes, each bite brimming with tradition and flavour.

Fall in love with their Roghani Nans, juicy BBQ, best-selling Handi, and fiery Shinwari Karahi, classics adored by expats and locals alike.

But the cherry on top of this culinary feast is the legendary Gola Kabab, a delicate delight you absolutely must try.

And if you need a sweet ending, their refreshing Gola Ganda is the perfect post-meal treat.

Beyond the incredible food, Grill N Rice wins hearts with its friendly, prompt service and reasonable prices.

They also prioritize hygiene, taking all necessary precautions to ensure a safe and comfortable dining experience.

So, skip the bland and head to Grill N Rice.

It’s more than just a meal; it’s a love affair with authentic Pakistani and Indian flavours.

Grill N Rice Location

Red Chillies

Calling all Karachi foodies in Riyadh!

Craving that iconic Karachi fast food scene?

Red Chillies has your back – it’s like a portal straight to bustling Karachi streets, serving up all your favourite flavours.

Forget ordinary paratha rolls in Riyadh, because Red Chillies rolls them up with tangy mint sauce and juicy fillings, every bite a burst of Karachi magic.

Need more?

They sizzle up BBQ, pile high Karachi-style Zinger burgers, and even craft Pakistani-style pizzas bursting with unexpected flavours.

And who can resist breakfast in Karachi?

Red Chillies nails it with their golden Halwa Puri, they’re the pioneer to introduce authentic Karachi-style halwa puri.

Wash it down with a fizzy Limca, the perfect finishing touch to your Pakistani feast.

Whether it’s the Club Sandwiches or the smoky BBQ , Red Chillies takes you on a flavour journey through Karachi’s bustling streets.

So ditch the ordinary and dive into the vibrant world of Red Chillies, your taste buds (and Karachi cravings) will thank you!

Red Chillies Riyadh Location

Biryani King

Biryani King conquered Riyadh’s palate with irresistible Karachi flavors.

This humble restaurant started small, but its taste quickly spread like wildfire.

Don’t be surprised if you encounter a queue on weekends – it’s worth the wait!

But what’s the secret of their success?

Authenticity.

This isn’t just any Biryani King; it’s a portal to Karachi’s culinary soul.

Their legendary Biryani King special Nihari will transport you to bustling Burns Road, its rich flavours a vibrant echo of home.

But the magic doesn’t stop there.

Fluffy, fragrant Biryanis, succulent Karahi, hearty Haleem, and smoky BBQ that sing with Karachi magic – Biryani King serves them all.

Each bite is a testament to generations-old recipes, cooked with passion and passed down with love.

And to cap off your culinary journey, indulge in their divine Meetha Pan.

It’s the perfect sweet ending to a feast that will leave you reminiscing about Karachi streets and yearning for another visit.

Biryani King is a tribute to pure, unadulterated Karachi flavors.

Give it a try, and prepare to be whisked away on a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget.

Biryani King Location

Lahori Village

Heard whispers of Lahori Village?

No wonder!

This hidden gem is a lunchtime champion for office dwellers like me, dishing up delicious Pakistani fare at wallet-friendly prices.

But Lahori Village is more than just convenient.

Their recent renovation brought a warm, inviting ambiance, perfect for gathering family and friends.

Worried about privacy?

Worry not!

They’ll happily drape your table, creating a cozy retreat for your culinary adventure.

And speaking of adventure, their menu is a playground of Pakistani flavors.

My ultimate Lahori Village go-to?

Breakfast, hands down!

Their fluffy Parathas and spiced Channa (chickpeas) are a morning symphony, guaranteed to fuel your day.

But don’t limit yourself – Lahori Village has something for every craving.

So, if you’re in Riyadh and hunger pangs strike, skip the chain joints and head over to Lahori Village.

Budget-friendly bites, family-friendly vibes, and authentic flavors await.

Trust me, your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you!

Lahori Village Location

Biryani House – Riyadh – بيت البرياني

“Biryani House.” Just the name conjures up visions of fragrant rice, tender meat, and layers of flavor.

And believe me, this Karachi gem in Riyadh lives up to its name in every way!

They began humbly as a dedicated Biryani restaurant, and word of their mouthwatering magic quickly spread among Riyadh’s expat community.

And for good reason.

This isn’t just any biryani; it’s a symphony of Karachi flavors, a taste of home transported across the miles.

I myself discovered Biryani House thanks to a friend’s tip.

One bite of their biryani, and I, like every biryani-lover before me, uttered a single, powerful word: “WOW.”

That first experience sparked a love affair that continues to this day.

Whenever that craving for authentic Karachi-style biryani hits, Biryani House is my go-to.

And the good news just keeps coming!

They recently opened a brand new branch in the heart of Naseem, making their taste bud-tingling magic even more accessible.

So, whether you’re a seasoned biryani connoisseur or simply curious about what all the fuss is about, do yourself a favour and head to Biryani House.

Prepare to be swept away by the magic of Karachi, one perfect bite at a time.

You won’t be disappointed!

Biryani House – Riyadh – بيت البرياني Locations

Hara:

Naseem

Roll.Khi

Ah, Karachiites in Riyadh, unite!

We all know that first love for juicy, messy Anday wala Burgers, aka the legendary Bun Kabab.

And guess what?

Roll.Khi has brought that Karachi street food magic straight to Riyadh!

Their Bun Kabab, also known as Shami Burger, is a masterpiece.

Not just some dry patty – we’re talking perfectly spiced, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness, dripping with flavour and wrapped in a soft, fluffy bun.

It’s pure comfort food heaven, a bite of Karachi nostalgia in every mouthful.

Now, Roll.Khi might be relatively new, but word travels fast when it comes to street food heaven.

People in Riyadh are buzzing about their Bun Kabab, and for good reason.

It’s quickly becoming one of the best in the city.

As for their rolls, well, that’s a matter of personal taste.

My pal swears by their rolls, but for me, Red Chillies still holds the crown in that department.

But hey, that’s the beauty of a diverse culinary scene!

You get to explore and find your own favourites.

So, Karachiites (and anyone else with a burger void in their lives), head over to Roll.Khi and dive into the Bun Kabab goodness.

You won’t be disappointed, I promise!

Just be prepared for some serious nostalgia and happy taste bud dances.

Roll.Khi Location

Zouq Nihari

Calling all Nihari fanatics!

Riyadh now boasts a haven for your cravings, a place where the name speaks volumes: Zouq Nihari.

Forget bland imitations, this gem serves up the best Nalli and Magaz Nihari in town, hands down.

Imagine this: tender, slow-cooked bone marrow and meat bathed in a rich, fragrant broth, infused with spices that dance on your tongue.

Each bite is a symphony of savory flavors, a testament to Zouq Nihari’s mastery of this Pakistani culinary treasure.

And the journey doesn’t end there.

To mop up this deliciousness, they bring you Naan so hot and fresh, it practically sizzles on arrival.

Every fluffy bite is the perfect vessel for dipping into the Nihari’s depths, soaking up every ounce of that magical broth.

Zouq Nihari isn’t just about quenching your Nihari thirst; it’s an experience.

The atmosphere is vibrant and friendly, buzzing with the excited whispers of fellow Nihari devotees.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, you’ll feel welcome and ready to dive into this culinary adventure.

So, next time your heart (and stomach) yearn for authentic Pakistani Nihari, don’t settle for anything less than the real deal.

Head to Zouq Nihari and prepare to be serenaded by a symphony of savoury flavours.

Zouq Nihari Location

Food Corner

Dreaming of Karachi’s vibrant streets and sizzling flavours?

Look no further than Food Corner in Riyadh!

This hidden gem is your ticket to authentic Pakistani cuisine, especially Karachi-style delights.

Prepare to be swept away by their legendary Sajji.

Tender meat, slow-cooked to perfection, infused with smoky, aromatic spices – every bite is a journey to Karachi’s bustling food scene.

And then there’s the Nalli Biryani, a fragrant masterpiece where fluffy rice mingles with melt-in-your-mouth bone marrow.

It’s comfort food on steroids, guaranteed to transport you to Karachi’s culinary haven.

So, whether you’re a Karachi native yearning for home or a curious foodie seeking an authentic Pakistani adventure, Food Corner is a must-try.

Come for the Sajji and Nalli Biryani, stay for the Karachi vibes, and leave with a satisfied smile and a heart full of flavor.

Food Corner Location

Sweet N Spicy

While they share the same owner as the beloved Lahori Village, Sweet N Spicy carves its own unique path in Riyadh’s Pakistani culinary scene.

This modern masterpiece isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience, and I can personally vouch for it!

Remember my Saudi Arabian friends’ marriage get-together?

I entrusted Sweet N Spicy with the task, and boy, did they deliver magic!

Everything, from the impeccably curated menu to the well-trained staff and chic ambiance, oozed elegance and attention to detail.

It was the perfect blend of Pakistani warmth and modern finesse, leaving my friends speechless.

But enough about my party (though seriously, it was epic!).

Let’s talk food, the true star of the show.

Forget bland, run-of-the-mill dishes.

Sweet N Spicy’s chefs weave culinary spells with fresh ingredients and innovative touches.

Their Daal Makhni, a creamy symphony of lentils, and the Madrasi Handi, a vibrant explosion of flavors, are must-try masterpieces.

But trust me, exploring their menu is a delightful adventure in itself.

This newcomer might be young, but its culinary prowess speaks volumes.

It’s no wonder Sweet N Spicy is earning its place among Riyadh’s top Pakistani restaurants.

So, why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary?

Head over to Sweet N Spicy and prepare to be swept away by a fusion of modern style and authentic Pakistani flavours.

Your taste buds will thank you!

Sweet N Spicy Location

Nirala Fish & Sweets

Craving a breakfast so good it’ll erase last night’s dinner regrets?

Look no further than Nirala!

This Pakistani gem in Riyadh isn’t just any restaurant; it’s a portal to breakfast heaven, and they reign supreme when it comes to Naan Chanay.

Word of Nirala’s legendary breakfast spreads far and wide. Foodies from across Saudi Arabia pay a visit here just for fluffy naans and rich, flavourful chana (chickpeas).

It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, guaranteed to leave you saying “wow” with every bite.

But Nirala’s magic isn’t limited to just mornings.

While their dinner menu might be on the smaller side, each dish is a masterpiece.

Their Palak (spinach), for example, is a leafy ode to culinary perfection.

So go ahead, indulge in a late-night Nirala experience, you won’t regret it.

Trust me, your taste buds (and tummy) will thank you!

Nirala Fish & Sweets Location

Special Mention: Riyadh Eateries – مطاعم الرياض

Foodie FOMO got you down?

Ditch the bland bites and spice up your life with Riyadh Eateries!

This epic Facebook group, made by Mohsin Jalali is a lifeline for anyone lost in the culinary jungle of Riyadh.

Here’s why you gotta join

• Honest reviews: Tired of sugar-coated fluff? Riyadh Eateries spills the real tea on all things food, from hidden gems to duds you wanna dodge.
• Foodie fam: Join thousands of fellow food-obsessed peeps! Discover new favourites, share your cravings, and get recommendations from folks who know their biryani from their haleem.
• Riyadh’s foodie haven: Pakistani eats, international delights, street food secrets – you name it, Riyadh Eateries has it. Find your next culinary adventure with the inside scoop from real Riyadh foodies.

Don’t be a lonely spork!

Dive into the delicious discussions and join the Riyadh Eateries family.

Remember, a foodie who eats alone, dines in darkness.

Click here and join the fun!: Riyadh Eateries

Street Food PK in the Food Scene of Riyadh

Riyadh’s Pakistani food scene just got hotter!

Pakistani vlogger Zia T (Street Food PK), invited by Riyadh Eateries founder and admin, Mohsin Jalali, dove headfirst into the city’s finest 2 Pakistani restaurants, and he loved it!

Watch Zia T navigate the vibrant streets of Riyadh, chat with Mohsin Jalali, and devour steaming plates of Pakistani goodness.

FAQs “Pakistani Restaurants in Riyadh”

Conclusion: Riyadh on Fire! Pakistani Flavours Explode

Hold onto your taste buds, Riyadh foodies!

New Pakistani restaurants are popping up faster than rolls can fly.

Gone are the days of searching high and low for authentic Pakistani cuisine – now, it’s everywhere!

But with so many delicious options, who can choose?

Well, that’s where I come in.

I’ve ventured into the streets of Hara (and beyond), savouring the spices and soaking up the flavours and shared in this article.

So, tell me, which Pakistani restaurant in Riyadh steals your heart?

Share your secret spots and hidden gems in the comments!